Abstract

The Children's Global Assessment Scale (CGAS) was analyzed wih regard to interrater reliability, discriminant validity, and clinical usefulness in two different studies. Where interrater reliability and discriminant validity were high, stability varied for different psychiatric diagnoses. In a clinical sample, scores were dependent on diagnoses, mental retardation, and socioeconomic status. A cutoff score of 70 clearly differentiated normal functioning from more severe problems in need of treatment. The scale sensibly reflected change due to therapeutic interventions.